New record for Bayraktar TB3: Turkish UAV passes 32-hour endurance test, covering 5700 km
The Bayraktar TB3 drone has successfully passed regular tests.
Turkish company Baykar reports that it has conducted another test of its Bayraktar TB3 reconnaissance and strike drone – on Wednesday, December 20, the UAV successfully completed its 13th flight test since it made its maiden flight on October 27.
During the latest tests, the drone was literally tested for endurance – it was continuously in the air for 32 hours, with an average altitude of about 6 km. During this time, the drone covered a total distance of 5700 km. As noted, the drone was equipped with a Turkish PD-170 engine with a capacity of 172 hp from TUSAŞ Engine Industries (TEI).
Bayraktar TB3 belongs to the MALE class of medium-altitude drones. First introduced in 2020, it was developed, among other things, for operation from the TCG Anadolu landing ship as an alternative to the fifth-generation F-35 fighters, which were intended for operation from this ship.
Serial production of Bayraktar TB3 drones should start next year (although it is possible that the deadline will be shifted to the right, since, for example, the first flight of the drone was originally scheduled for 2022, but took place this fall).
Tactical and technical characteristics of Bayraktar TB3:
- maximum takeoff weight – 1450 kg;
- carrying capacity – 280 kg;
- length – 8.35 m;
- height – 2.6 m;
- Wingspan – 14 m;
- cruising speed – 232 km/h;
- maximum speed – 300 km/h;
- operating range – 1900 km;
- six suspension units for weapons.
